If you are craving a salad that bursts with freshness, flavor, and just the right touch of sweetness, this Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe is an absolute winner. Juicy grilled chicken pairs perfectly with vibrant strawberries, tangy goat cheese, crunchy pecans, and peppery greens, all brought together by a luscious balsamic dressing that makes every bite sing. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a stunning dinner salad, this recipe blends simple ingredients into a delightful experience that feels both wholesome and indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this salad lies in its beautiful simplicity. Each ingredient plays a specific role, from the tender grilled chicken providing protein and substance, to the fresh strawberries adding juicy brightness, and the creamy goat cheese lending a tangy richness that complements the crisp greens perfectly.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The protein powerhouse and main star grilled to perfection.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds moisture and helps sear the chicken with a golden crust.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides subtle heat and depth.
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, romaine): Offers a variety of textures and peppery to mild flavors.
- 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries: Brings a burst of sweet juiciness and vibrant color.
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta: Adds creamy tanginess that contrasts beautifully with the fruit.
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion: Gives a mild sharpness and crunch.
- 1/4 cup candied or toasted pecans: Introduces a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze or dressing: The final touch that ties all the ingredients together with its rich, tangy sweetness.
How to Make Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
Start by heating a skillet or grill pan over medium heat to get it nice and hot. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with salt and pepper. Cook each breast for about 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until the meat is fully cooked through and has a beautiful golden sear. Once done, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes so the juices redistribute, then slice it thinly to get those perfect salad-friendly pieces.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base
Grab a large salad bowl and combine your mixed greens with the sliced strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, red onion slices, and pecans. This mix brings a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, from the soft and creamy to the crisp and crunchy.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Dress
Top the salad with the thinly sliced grilled chicken, then drizzle the entire bowl with your balsamic glaze or dressing just before serving. Gently toss everything to make sure each bite has that amazing contrast between sweet, tangy, savory, and crunchy elements.
How to Serve Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your salad even more, consider sprinkling a few fresh basil leaves, microgreens, or extra pecans right before serving. A light shaving of Parmesan or a few slices of creamy avocado can also make this dish even more irresistible and visually stunning.
Side Dishes
This salad shines on its own as a satisfying meal, but if you want to round out your plate, try serving it alongside garlic bread, a warm bowl of tomato soup, or even a chilled glass of white wine. These accompaniments complement the salad without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, layer the ingredients in clear glass jars for an on-the-go lunch or buffet setup. Alternatively, arrange the salad components artfully on a large platter, allowing guests to build their own bowls. This makes the experience interactive and visually delightful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, keep the salad components separate for best results—the chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, while the greens and toppings last about a day before wilting or losing crunch. Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended. While cooked chicken freezes well, fresh strawberries and greens lose their texture and flavor when frozen.
Reheating
Reheat the grilled chicken gently in a skillet or microwave before adding it back to the salad. Avoid reheating the full salad as the greens and other fresh ingredients won’t hold up and may become soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While goat cheese adds a nice tangy creaminess, feta or blue cheese are delicious alternatives that also pair wonderfully with the strawberries and balsamic dressing.
What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
If you don’t have balsamic glaze, regular balsamic vinegar works just fine. You can also whisk it with a little olive oil and honey to mimic the sweetness and thickness of a glaze.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, with some care. Keep the dressing separate and chop the ingredients fresh just before assembling to ensure the salad stays crisp and vibrant for lunchtime.
Can I swap the chicken for another protein?
Definitely! Grilled shrimp, turkey breast, or even a plant-based protein like tofu work well if you want to change things up.
How do I prevent the strawberries from making the salad soggy?
Choose ripe but firm strawberries and slice them just before serving. Toss the salad with dressing right before eating to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe is a true celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients made simple and delicious. It’s one of those go-to dishes that feels special but comes together with ease—perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself. I hope you give it a try and find as much joy in each bite as I do!
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Strawberry Chicken Salad with Balsamic Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Strawberry Chicken Salad featuring grilled chicken breasts, mixed greens, fresh strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, and crunchy pecans, all tossed in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a summer dinner, this salad combines healthy proteins and fresh fruits for a flavorful and colorful meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salad
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, and romaine)
- 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup candied or toasted pecans
Dressing
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze or dressing
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Rub the chicken breasts evenly on all sides with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the hot pan and cook for 6 to 7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and a golden sear forms. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to retain juices.
- Slice the Chicken: After resting, slice the chicken breasts thinly into bite-sized pieces or strips.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, sliced strawberries, crumbled goat cheese, sliced red onion, and candied or toasted pecans.
- Add the Chicken: Arrange the sliced chicken on top of the salad mixture evenly.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the balsamic glaze or dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine all ingredients and coat them with the dressing.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in balsamic vinegar and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Swap goat cheese for feta or blue cheese as preferred.
- Use almonds or walnuts instead of pecans for a different nutty crunch.
- Add avocado slices for extra creaminess or quinoa for additional protein to make the salad more filling.
